Anna Bialkowski
Staff Writer
Today, internships are becoming more valuable than other items on a resume. With the need to receive the best internship, students are traveling across the nation for their experience. One of the most popular places for these experiences are on Capitol Hill.
There are a myriad of programs that a student can pursue. Whether that be journalism through The Fund of American Studies (TFAS) or investigating personal injury law through Karp, Widodsky, Norwind, Kudel & Gold, P.A., students can pursue an internship for a semester and live within the vibrant culture of Washington, D.C. Not only providing an incredible environment but being able to tackle problems with professionals in the field will give anyone hands-on experience for their future career.
For junior Abigail Ghaly, completing an internship for Karp, Widodsky, Norwind, Kudel & Gold, P.A. specializing in personal injury law for auto accidents has clarified her career trajectory.
“The immersive internship at Karp, Widodsky, Norwind, Kudel & Gold, P.A. during the Washington Center Program has solidified my passion for law…I am now determined to pursue further education, confident that this internship has equipped me with a strong foundation for success in the legal field,” Ghaly said.
Ghaly explained that this internship gave her a deep perspective into the world of law, specifically in understanding the relationship between attorneys, medical providers and insurance companies. Having prior experience at a chiropractic office, Ghaly feels a profound appreciation for seeing both sides of a rather complex equation.
“This dual exposure allowed me to recognize not only the immediate physical and emotional repercussions but also the crucial importance of legal advocacy in navigating the complexities of post-accident challenges,” Ghaly said.
Working close with colleagues, networking for her future, Ghaly made new friends along the way.
“The program’s diversity provided an enriching environment for cultural exchange…The program allowed me to create friendships that will last a lifetime,” Ghaly said.
Of course, the opportunity to live in the nation’s capital gave Ghaly an unforgettable experience. Residing north of Massachusetts Ave.– a neighborhood known to locals as NoMa– helped Ghaly glean a rich cultural perspective, alongside making new friendships.
“Undoubtedly, the highlight of my internship program extended beyond the professional realm to the vibrant experience of living in Washington, D.C.,” Ghaly said.
The Washington Center is a resource for navigating internships offered in the D.C area that spans across a wide variety of professions. For example, their website states that a student can apply for a CDC internship to “explore the diversity of public health opportunities that can lead to an exciting career,” or conduct research for the Naval Research Laboratory. There is even a quiz listed on the website to help guide and narrow down searches.
The capital offers a plethora of life changing opportunities through internships. As seen through Ghaly, an internship in D.C. can shape a student’s professional experience, while also forming lasting relationships with others. Applying for an internship is just a click away, and can truly impact one’s trajectory for their career.
